Privacy hardly exists anymore when it comes to social media. Once someone hits the ‘send’ button, it’s out there for the world, not to mention future employers.
Many advantages stem from the use of social networks. Connections and easy access are just two of the many. But they can also attract scam artists, be a distraction and most importantly, depending on your actions online, hurt your chances of getting a job.
The saying “be careful what you say online” holds much truth. While social networking sites such as Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter create outlets for people worldwide to connect, network and uphold friendships, they’ve also created another way for employers to stiffer through possible employees.
One’s image online plays an important role throughout the job searching process. As society advances, job seekers have expanded their job search and have begun to use social media to find work.
As more job seekers turn to social networks, employers do the same. Research from Jobvite, an applicant tracking system, shows 86 percent of employers likely look at social profiles for prospects, while 48 percent admit they always do.
“It’s so important to watch what you say and post online,” said Willneisha Hutchinson, a freshman biology major. “Now days everyone is watching; it could be someone with a possible job offer.”
Being conscious of one’s spelling and grammatical errors when posting online, as well as watching one’s use of profanity plays an important role. Spelling and grammatical errors received a negative reaction of 54 percent from possible employers, while profanity received a negative reaction of 61 percent according to Jobvite.
Photos also play a major part. Pictures drinking, smoking or posed inappropriately can affect an employer’s decision. Eighty percent of employers, however, enjoying seeing content about one’s participation in professional organizations.
Keishanda Simmons, a freshman pre-med major, understands the importance of watching what you do, especially in social media.
“I always think about what I’m going to say online or the pictures I post on Facebook. You have to be careful, because it’s common knowledge now that people are watching,” Simmons said. “It’s not professional to post inappropriate things online or anywhere for that matter.”
